The UK has some incredible cities – it’s one of the reasons why 31 million tourists visited the UK in 2022. Each city has its own story to tell and its own unique experiences. It’s not just London (although London is one of the cities we’ll mention). It’s every city. Read on to find out more.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh. Full stop. If you have been to Edinburgh, you’ll know it’s hard to put into words how good the city is to visit. It’s the cultural heart of the country.
The city’s skyline is dominated by the imposing Edinburgh Castle and the growing metropolitan skyscrapers – it’s amazing to see it as sunset. Apart from walking around and being in awe, you could visit:
- Arthur’s Seat
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- National Museum of Scotland
- One of the many other museums in Edinburgh
- Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
The list could go on.
Dining in Edinburgh is an experience unto itself. ‘The Witchery by the Castle’ is just one of the city’s many gems. The Grassmarket has a better variety of pubs and eateries with more character.
Edinburgh is the gateway to the rest of Scotland. You can hire a motorhome in Edinburgh and take it to the Highlands or Inverness, for example.
Newcastle
Newcastle upon Tyne, or simply Newcastle, is a great city. You’ve got the iconic Tyne Bridge that spans the river and The Quayside area for a good time. Somehow, the two popular locations combine a lively atmosphere and history in one place.
If you want arts and culture, Newcastle has it for you. The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art is worth a visit. Theatre enthusiasts will love the Theatre Royal – there’s always a good musical showing there.
You’ll also love the Victoria Tunnel, an underground wagonway that tells a lesser-known story of the city’s past. You can do Jack the Ripper-style tours down there. For a taste of local life, the Ouseburn Valley is worth going to.
London
You can’t talk about cities to visit in the UK without talking about London. Everyone knows about London, so we won’t go into too much detail. You’ve got everything from the well-known London Eye and the Tower of London to the British Museum to explore. And no touristy-style trip to the big smoke is complete without seeing Buckingham Palace.
And if you want to talk about food, London definitely has it. If anything, it has too much to choose from. If you’re one of those indecisive people who struggle to pick a place to eat, you’ll definitely struggle in London.
You’ve got everything from pubs serving the best traditional Sunday roasts you’ve ever had to Michelin-star dining that your bank account will cry at you for visiting. A tasting menu experience at a Michelin-star restaurant in London can set you back £££. Even a traditional pub roast dinner can – London is expensive. Beware.
Liverpool
Liverpool’s soul is music and football – you can’t go to Liverpool on a weekend during the football season and not experience it. Even if you don’t like football, the atmosphere is well worth experiencing.
Or, you can be more of a tourist and go to The Beatles Story Museum or the legendary Cavern Club. They’re some of the most popular places in Liverpool to visit. You should also go to the Tate Liverpool (incredible) or go to the Baltic Triangle for street art.
The Albert Dock is not just a scenic spot. It’s the spot. There are so many places to eat and drink there, and it’s just iconic to Liverpool.
And if you love the nightlife, Liverpool has it. Walk around the Ropewalks district for a good time.
Bristol
Bristol is a firm favourite. Bristol is the perfect mix of old-school Britain and modern-day life. Its strong LGBTQ+ community proves it (Pride in Bristol is well worth a visit). Or, for something completely different, the SS Great Britain is a famous Bristol landmark. See, a complete juxtaposition of experiences.
Bristol is known for its art (Banksy is a fan). Street art here is famous for including his works. The cultural scene then moves to places like the Bristol Old Vic and the Arnolfini Gallery. A Friday or Saturday night there is incredible.
You should also check out harborside eateries and the St Nicholas Market. There are so many food choices that even the biggest foodie wouldn’t know what to do with themselves.
London, Liverpool, and Bristol have a unique slice of British life. They’re all different but slightly the same if that makes sense. You’ll notice that if you spend enough time travelling around the UK. No matter the city, you’re guaranteed to have a good time.
Each city shows the UK’s diverse character – we absolutely love it. You’ve got history, culture, and just good old-fashioned Britain. Love it or hate it, it’s still one of the best countries to visit for cities and countryside. Which is your favourite UK city, or what have you now put on your list?
